Information courtesy of the American Association of People with Disabilities

Each year, the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) offers the Paul G. Hearne Leadership Awards to recognize those outstanding emerging leaders with disabilities who exemplify leadership, advocacy, and commitment to the broader disability community.

Two individuals will each receive $2,500 in recognition of their outstanding contributions and $7,500 to further a new or existing initiative that increases the political and economic power of people with disabilities. Award recipients will also star have an opportunity to join national disability leaders at the AAPD Leadership Gala in Washington, DC.

U.S. residents with any type of disability are eligible to apply. You will need two letters of support, one from a professional reference and one from a mentor or supportive colleague.